Prentice receives state teaching award

SAN MARCOS, TEXAS — A Southwest Texas State University faculty member has been named the top university teacher in the state by the Texas Council of Teachers of English (TCTE).

Thomas Prentice, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction at SWT, received the 2000-2001 Outstanding University English Language Arts Educator Award during the TCTE convention held recently in Houston.

Prentice’s students, who complimented him for the academic rigor he presents in the classroom and respect he shows his students, nominated him for the award.

“He always has an interesting perspective to spark his students’ thinking, and he fosters a classroom that is conducive to both critical thinking and humor,” said one student.

During the presentation of the award, Carolyn Mashburn, past president of TCTE, said Prentice’s recognition came from the investment he makes in his students on a daily basis.

“While challenging his students in both literature and writing classes, he also believes in students taking charge of their own learning by making choices,” Mashburn said.